In this episode I am joined by Helen Whittaker, Director atBarley Studios where they have an international reputation for excellence in stained glass creation and conservation for cathedrals, stately homes, parish churches and prestigious secular buildings across the UK and beyond. Helen is an award-winning designer and maker of stained-glass windows and metal sculpture, directing restoration painting alongside her new design work. In 2024 Helen was awarded an MBE for services to stained glass creation and conservation in the Kings Birthday Honours. She has also recently published a book titled “Illuminating Stained Glass – Creativity, Conservation and Craft at Barley Studio.”

We talk about how she got into stained glass and theimportance of work experience to hone her skills and her love of working with glass which goes beyond painting. She talks about the need to combine the skill with the artistry and how it has been on the skills at risk register and the demand for conservation and restoration work alongside new commissions. Helen describes how she works, and the processes involved when making a window.

We discuss conservation vs restoration, the challenges,common themes and misconceptions working in the heritage sector along with the usual top tips when working with an older property.

It will be an interesting listen for anyone embarking on aproject and is looking for some guidance and anyone generally interested in older properties.